IO Environmental & Infrastructure Wins 2017 Small Business Subcontractor of the Year Award

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) recognized Tetra Tech small business partner IO Environmental & Infrastructure, Inc. (IOEI) with the 2017 Small Business Subcontractor of the Year award on May 1, 2017, during Small Business Week in Washington, DC. The annual award recognizes a small business that has provided the government and industry with outstanding services as a subcontractor. Tetra Tech nominated IOEI for the award because of IOEI’s record of providing excellent, responsive service to Tetra Tech and its customers.

The partnership between Tetra Tech and IOEI began in 2007 when IOEI provided water coolers at Tetra Tech’s remedial project sites. IOEI expressed an interest and willingness to provide other materials and supplies. As a result, Tetra Tech expanded the items procured from IOEI to site trailers, import fill material, and eventually site labor. As Tetra Tech’s confidence in IOEI’s responsiveness and ability to undertake more complex tasks increased, the company was awarded larger and more complex tasks.

“We view IOEI as one of our most trusted, effective, and forward-thinking small business subcontractors, with a can-do attitude that makes working with them a positive experience for both Tetra Tech and IOEI” said Andy Bolt, head of U.S. remedial operations.

Tetra Tech has helped mentor and provide increasing opportunities for IOEI, establishing its footing in the federal marketplace. From a start as a vendor providing water coolers to Tetra Tech, IOEI has become a prime contractor on a major procurement, with Tetra Tech serving as a subcontractor. The San Diego-based company is looking at an eastward expansion as Tetra Tech provides access to joint pursuits across the country.

In addition to providing excellent service on federal contracts, IOEI is committed to providing meaningful employment to veterans. The company received a Service Veteran Outreach Award from the Society of American Military Engineers Orange County Post in 2012 and the 2014 Veteran-Owned Small Business of the Year award from the SBA San Diego District Office.

Tetra Tech is committed to helping small, local businesses like IOEI grow while also providing added value to its customers. Our long-term relationships with firms such as IOEI that benefit our government customers, support our protégés’ growth, and expand the services we offer to our customers.